Adjust Your Crown: 3 Beyonce Hits to Lift Your Mood and Confidence

Home » Blog » Adjust Your Crown: 3 Beyonce Hits to Lift Your Mood and Confidence

Adjust Your Crown: 3 Beyonce Hits to Lift Your Mood and Confidence

March 8, 2024 | Naweh Diggs, LMSW | 5 min. read

As women, we face numerous challenges while traversing through life.

Oftentimes, societal expectations can impact our self-perception significantly. We are expected to maintain a certain appearance, speak in a particular manner, dress in ways that please others, and so on. This pressure can often lead to losing our identity and feeling hollow. Luckily, there is a prominent figure in our culture who has openly discussed facing similar struggles. She is known as Queen B, the Queen, or simply Beyonce. Below are her songs that discuss this topic:

Song 1: “Diva”

I’ma a diva, I’ma Ima a diva! If you are facing challenges in the workplace or struggling with self esteem, this song is a perfect fit for you. It emphasizes the importance of affirming yourself with positive words, recognizing your abilities and reaching deep for your inner strength for achieving success. It serves as a reminder to acknowledge your past achievements and realize the potential within you.

3 Songs to Lift Your Mood and Confidence | OMHG Blog

Song 2: “Schooling Life”

This song is quite possibly one of Beyonce’s most overlooked tracks. It delves into the idea of embracing life wholeheartedly and discussing the various phases one may encounter in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s. In this song, Beyonce urges women to seize opportunities without dwelling on regrets, while emphasizing the abundance of experiences waiting to be had. The song also empowers women by affirming that their dreams and aspirations will eventually come to fruition.

Song 3: “You Can’t Break My Soul”

At times, life might push you to the brink, and the judgments of others can exacerbate those feelings. This song emphasizes the importance of not letting anyone or anything shatter you. Beyonce shares how she rediscovered herself and rebuilt herself on a solid foundation. It’s all about living the life you’ve built for yourself free from others’ opinions and criticisms.

Conclusion

To conclude, always trust in the inner strength you possess. Acknowledge and cherish the treasures and beauty that lie within you. Additionally, recognize your humanity and accept that your emotions may fluctuate daily. In those moments, simply play one of these songs and regain that empowering feeling!

Follow us for more wellness content!

More Blog Posts

What Does an Autism Evaluation Look Like?

What Does an Autism Evaluation Look Like?

While the specifics may vary depending on the clinician or setting, most autism evaluations follow a comprehensive and structured approach to gather a full picture of an individual’s development, communication style, sensory preferences, and daily life experiences.

read more
What is Autism?

What is Autism?

Autism is a naturally occurring variation in how brains process information, communicate, and experience the world. It is not a disorder to be “fixed” but rather a neurotype—one of many ways human minds work.

read more

Mindful Lyrics: Exploring Hip Hop’s Therapeutic Effects

Home » Blog » Mindful Lyrics: Exploring Hip Hop’s Therapeutic Effects

Mindful Lyrics: Exploring Hip Hop’s Therapeutic Effects

March 6, 2024 | Naweh Diggs, LMSW | 7 min. read

In the past 50 years, hip-hop has risen to become one of the most influential genres globally.

Originating in the Bronx, NYC, this genre has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its impact on fashion, mindset, television, and politics is undeniable. However, beyond its cultural significance, hip-hop has also shown promising therapeutic effects for addressing depression and anxiety, particularly among Black youth.

Many young individuals today grapple with the challenges of depression and anxiety. The pressures of academic performance, parental expectations, peer influences, and personal aspirations can create a heavy burden on the shoulders of the youth.

Mindful Lyrics Exploring Hip Hop's Therapeutic Effects

In an era of unparalleled connectivity through the internet, social challenges are amplified, leading to unrealistic standards and expectations. In such a landscape, providing an outlet for expression that offers an avenue for young people to connect with others authentically and discover their true selves is crucial.

The Healing Power of Lyrics

Hip-hop, with its raw and honest lyricism, provides a unique avenue for individuals to express their innermost thoughts and emotions. The genre’s lyrical content often delves into personal struggles, societal issues, and the raw realities of life. Through identifying with these lyrics, listeners can feel understood and validated in their own experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance.

The act of listening to hip-hop music can be cathartic, allowing listeners to release pent-up emotions and find solace in the relatability of the lyrics. Moreover, many artists within the hip-hop community openly discuss mental health struggles, breaking the stigma surrounding these issues and encouraging open conversations about mental well-being.

Empowerment Through Music

Beyond serving as a form of emotional release, hip-hop empowers individuals by instilling a sense of resilience and perseverance. Many hip-hop songs carry messages of self-empowerment, encouraging listeners to overcome obstacles, embrace their uniqueness, and strive for personal growth. Such positive affirmations can be particularly uplifting for young individuals navigating the complexities of adolescence.

Moreover, the rhythmic beats and infectious energy of hip-hop music have a transformative effect on mood and mindset. The genre’s dynamic soundscapes can uplift spirits, boost confidence, and ignite a sense of motivation. Whether through introspective ballads or high-energy anthems, hip-hop has the power to uplift, inspire, and energize its listeners.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hip-hop’s therapeutic effects on depression and anxiety among youth are a testament to the genre’s profound impact. Overall, Hip Hop remains a foundational element in American culture and shows no signs of disappearing any time soon. With a diverse range of artists like J Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Rod Wave, Chika, and Juice World discussing social injustices and mental health issues, hip-hop serves as a medium through which many young individuals relate and connect. Additionally, it provides a platform for complete creative expression, personal development, and empathy. Encouraging young people to use hip-hop as an outlet for releasing emotions like anxiety and depression could have a transformative impact on our society at large.

Follow us for more wellness content!

More Blog Posts

What Does an Autism Evaluation Look Like?

What Does an Autism Evaluation Look Like?

While the specifics may vary depending on the clinician or setting, most autism evaluations follow a comprehensive and structured approach to gather a full picture of an individual’s development, communication style, sensory preferences, and daily life experiences.

read more
What is Autism?

What is Autism?

Autism is a naturally occurring variation in how brains process information, communicate, and experience the world. It is not a disorder to be “fixed” but rather a neurotype—one of many ways human minds work.

read more

Anxiety “Unmasked”— Tools for a Stress-Free Mind

Home » Blog » Anxiety “Unmasked” — Tools for a Stress-Free Mind

Anxiety “Unmasked” — Tools for a Stress-Free Mind

February 28, 2024 | Naweh Diggs, LMSW | 5 min. read

Anxiety has the potential to disrupt your everyday routines. Recognizing the signs and causes of anxiety can assist in managing it effectively.

The American Psychological Association states that anxiety entails sensations of stress, apprehension, and bodily alterations. Anxious sensations may manifest in diverse circumstances, varying in intensity. While occasional anxiety is common, persistent feelings of anxiety that impede your daily activities indicate the need to seek therapy and implement coping strategies. Although there are various forms of anxiety, here, we will focus on the overarching concept of anxiety.

Anxiety Unmasked - Tools for a Stress-Free Mind

Symptoms of Anxiety and The Effects

Symptoms of anxiety such as irritation, excessive worrying, insomnia, feelings of  nausea, rapid heartbeat, and palpitations can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed and out of control. Anxiety can negatively impact social interactions, physical well-being, and mental health, as well as interfere with one’s career,  personal relationships, and social life.

Clients can utilize a variety of methods to manage anxiety including  journaling, aromatherapy, and exercise. Regular exercise can boost dopamine and  endorphin levels, ultimately reducing feelings of anxiety. This can positively impact symptoms such as irritability, insomnia, and panic attacks that are commonly associated with anxiety. Establishing an exercise routine has proven  effective in lowering stress levels that contribute to anxiety. Aromatherapy is another soothing practice that can aid in relieving anxiety. Pleasant scents like lavender, vanilla, and citrus have been known to assist in stressful situations. Incorporating activities such as lighting candles, taking aromatic baths, or using scented oils can help soothe frazzled nerves in the moment.

Additionally, journaling serves as a method to alleviate stress and express emotions. Establishing a consistent journaling routine can assist in unloading the  pressures of day-to-day living. It has been noted by many that journaling provides  an outlet for emotions without fear of judgment. Whether through writing or audio journaling, discovering the approach that suits you best is crucial to your success.

Conclusion

That being said, anxiety may present numerous obstacles for individuals facing such struggles. Nonetheless, by making deliberate efforts, strategies can be  implemented to reduce the symptoms related to anxiety, enabling these individuals to lead fulfilling and healthy lives.

Follow us for more wellness content!

More Blog Posts

What Does an Autism Evaluation Look Like?

What Does an Autism Evaluation Look Like?

While the specifics may vary depending on the clinician or setting, most autism evaluations follow a comprehensive and structured approach to gather a full picture of an individual’s development, communication style, sensory preferences, and daily life experiences.

read more
What is Autism?

What is Autism?

Autism is a naturally occurring variation in how brains process information, communicate, and experience the world. It is not a disorder to be “fixed” but rather a neurotype—one of many ways human minds work.

read more

Embracing Presence

Home » Blog » Embracing Presence

Embracing Presence

February 16, 2024 | Jessie Nolasco-Sandino, LMSW | 5 min. read

Presence OMHG Blog

What exactly is ‘presence’? It’s a simple yet profound concept. Presence is about embracing the here and now.

Our thoughts and emotions often pull us into the future or anchor us to the past, leaving little room for the beauty of the current moment. We might wonder, why prioritize the present when there’s so much on our minds — job promotions, financial concerns, and relationships? These are valid aspects of life, but notice how they often come with stress and anxiety.

Being present is about finding peace in the present moment, wherever you may find yourself, amidst the thoughts/feelings swirling around.

The practice of presence isn’t always straightforward; it can be filled with challenges and setbacks. 

In a world filled with hustle and bustle, we often feel compelled to think ahead and worry about what’s next. It’s understandable, but we must also make time to just be present, to let go, to relax, and unwind. In doing so, we create a space where significant change can unfold, aligning with the desires and goals we hold for our own lives.

As the article by Elizabeth Perry suggests, “being present… is about where your mind is living.” Anxieties and fears live in the future while depression and regrets often lie in the past. However, peace of mind is often thought of as being in the present, where the two meet in the here and now. 

Here are some ways we can practice being and embracing presence:

1. Focused and paced breathing

This tried and true method works because it recenters our mind on the here and now, rather than letting our mind wander. It helps maintain a focus on our surroundings and what we are feeling at this moment in time. It also helps to focus our attention on body sensations, thoughts and feelings in the present moment.

2. Try mindfulness meditation practices

Although it can be difficult to build such habits, meditation can be an incredibly helpful source in our development of presence. In the practice of mindfulness and/or meditation, we begin to incorporate focused attention, relaxation, gentleness and peace of mind. Mindfulness meditations are all about intentionality and help create an intentional thought process that can aid in our lifestyle, livelihood and healing journey. 

3.  Limit social media time

Being a tremendous tool in connecting with others, social media also has its downsides. Constantly scrolling through feeds or reels can create longing for the past with a look at old photos; or a desire for others’ life leading to comparison, loss of confidence and genuine connections. The reality is we all struggle and one captured moment of bliss doesn’t necessarily reflect spontaneity, eccentricity or debauchery. Limiting our time on social media can help in building intentional thought processes such as being present with ourselves and others.

How to Be Present: Discover the Benefits of Here and Now (betterup.com)

Follow us for more wellness content!

More Blog Posts

What Does an Autism Evaluation Look Like?

What Does an Autism Evaluation Look Like?

While the specifics may vary depending on the clinician or setting, most autism evaluations follow a comprehensive and structured approach to gather a full picture of an individual’s development, communication style, sensory preferences, and daily life experiences.

read more
What is Autism?

What is Autism?

Autism is a naturally occurring variation in how brains process information, communicate, and experience the world. It is not a disorder to be “fixed” but rather a neurotype—one of many ways human minds work.

read more

Using the 5-Point Scale for Emotions Expression and Management

Home » Blog » Using the 5-Point Scale for Emotions Expression and Management

Using the 5-Point Scale for Emotions Expression and Management

February 8, 2024 | Joy Thibeault, LCSW-C | 5 min. read

When emotions are high and coping skills have flown from memory, what is a person to do? Use the trusty five point scale, that’s what!

A simple five point scale can be an invaluable tool at home for the whole family, as well as at school for kids! The scale provides common language a family (or classroom) can share to better communicate, especially around difficult things like emotions identification and expression. It assists in making emotion a more concrete and understandable concept. Additionally, it provides modeling opportunities for parents or teachers, as well as making coping strategies readily available.

A five point scale can also assist children in developing personalized coping strategies and dealing with strong emotions.

Emotion Scale Legos | OMHG Blog
Many things can be useful to rate on your five point scale. It could be how angry you are, how depressed you are, how difficult you anticipate a task to be versus how difficult it actually was after completing it, and of course to determine how big (or small) a specific problem is. As you can see, the possibilities are endless once the common language and understanding of scaling are reached. Be creative and remember to model the concept and procedure, including strategy use, aloud so that it becomes the norm for you and your family.

So how does it work? Simple. First you need to create your scale and fill it out.

List emotions that might fit or describe each number. For example, you might write calm beside one, maybe frustrated or down for two, maybe furious or terrified for five, and so on. Then in the column beside that, come up with personalized strategies that help you when you are experiencing an emotion at that numbered level. Strategies could look like: listening to music, going for a walk, drawing, being alone, moving to a particular room or space, calling a certain person, etc., and should be specific to the individual. It may take some time to gather or try out strategies but having them centrally located later will be invaluable.

When first introducing the concept, just for some practice, you could try scaling characters’ feelings during a show, or role play some situations and practice scaling those. Once everyone has the idea, you can move on to “real life” scenarios as they arise. Below are some examples of ways a parent could use the scale moving forward.

Example #1

A parent using the scale to help an angry child might look like this::

Parent to angry child: “It looks like you might be feeling kind of angry.  Can you tell me how angry you are using your five point scale?”

Child points to a 4

Parent: “Oh….so very angry then.  I’m so glad you told me.  Let’s see what your five point scale suggests for strategies (reference the strategies for number 4 and ask the child which one they might like to try first).”

Example #2

An example of a parent modeling might look like this:

Angry parent: “Dad is feeling really upset and is at a 5 right now.  I am going to take a break and use my strategies to get back down to a 1 or 2 and then we can talk about it.”

This scale and ideas are based on: The Incredible 5-Point Scale by Buron & Curtis

Follow us for more wellness content!

More Blog Posts

Recognizing Burnout

Recognizing Burnout

Burnout is living everyday stretched beyond “natural capacity” otherwise described as “survival mode.” When “survival mode” is the default, burnout is inevitable.

read more